Food Assistance and Nutrition Education
Pregnant women and mothers in New Jersey can access food assistance and nutrition education through various state and community programs aimed at improving health and well-being. Here are the key resources available:
Food Assistance Programs
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The New Jersey WIC Program provides supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education to pregnant women, postpartum mothers, and children under five. WIC benefits include healthy foods, personalized nutrition counseling, and referrals to healthcare services. Visit the New Jersey WIC Program for more eligibility information.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP offers monthly benefits to help low-income families purchase groceries. Pregnant women and mothers can apply for SNAP to ensure consistent access to nutritious foods for themselves and their families. Visit MYNJHelp or contact your County Social Service Agency via the NJ SNAP Information Line at 1-800-687-9512.
Food Banks and Panties
Local food banks and pantries across New Jersey provide emergency food assistance to families in need. Many partner with organizations to distribute fresh produce and healthy food terms. Call 2-1-1 or visit the NJ 2-1- website to locate food assistance resources near you.
Community Support Organizations
The Salvation Army of New Jersey
Offers meal programs, food baskets, and other support services for families in need.
New Jersey 2-1-1
Provides referrals to food assistance and nutrition programs statewide. Call 2-1-1 or visit: New Jersey 2-1-1.
Nutrition Education Programs
Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMN)
FMNP provides vouchers to WIC participants and seniors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from approved farmers' markets. It promotes access to local, nutritious foods while supporting New Jersey farmers. Learn more: NJ WIC website.
Cooking and Nutrition Education Programs
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) offers hands-on classes in meal planning, budgeting, and healthy cooking for low-income families. It is run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, EFNEP aims to improve the nutritional quality of meals and promote healthy lifestyles. Learn more: EFNEP.
Many public health centers provide nutrition education as part of prenatal and parenting support.
Find in the directory
Looking for an organization near you in New Jersey?
Hospitals, birth centers, doulas, WIC clinics, milk banks and more are listed by county. Enter a ZIP code or city to see yours.